10 New Year’s Health and Fitness Resolutions

Makeover your Mentality and Start Living Healthy!

If you’re one of the millions of people making health-related New Year’s resolutions this year, why not pick a few that you can actually stick to? Getting yourself off to a healthy start is easier when you pick some strategies that will keep you motivated each and every day. Skip the fad diets, extreme weight loss ideas, and unhealthy choices that can sabotage your health and choose some positive strategies instead! Here are just ten New Year’s health and fitness resolutions that can whip you into shape and keep you healthy for the long-term:

1. I will commit to daily exercise. There’s a difference between an exercise and a workout, and it’s much easier to make exercise a habit than it is to force oneself through a grueling workout session. If you alternate your intensive workout days with lighter physical activities such as walking, playing with the dog, or running errands on foot, you’ll become more active on a daily basis. Pick at least 2-3 activities you enjoy and make it a part of your daily schedule.

2. I will skip the next fad diet. Fad diets come and go each season, and almost every single one can sabotage your health. Make a commitment to ignore these completely, and focus on healthy eating as a lifestyle instead.

3. I will journal my problems. Many people turn to eating when they’re stressed out or can’t cope with a difficult situation. Turn to journaling as a constructive way to manage the situation; you’re much more likely to stick with your healthy eating plan when you have a more positive outlet!

4. I will not deprive myself. Cravings are a message from your body that you’re lacking nutrition. Instead of forcing yourself through a diet, enjoy a small portion of whatever you’re craving and stop overeating and obsessing about it.

5. I will exercise portion control. Portion sizes are only getting bigger at restaurants and cafes, but you can take charge of your eating by deciding how much the right amount is for you. Read up on nutrition labels and guidelines to get an idea of what truly is the right serving size.

6. I will enlist friends on my healthy venture. Making positive changes is much easier with a buddy system. Even one or two friends can provide motivation and help you through the toughest days. Make a resolution to bond with at least one other person as you make some lifestyle changes.

7. I will skip the gym once in a while. You don’t have to workout at the gym to get a great workout; those who do usually get tired of it within a few weeks and give up entirely. Pick some physical activities that you truly enjoy instead - dancing, jump roping, water skiing - anything that gets your heart pumping for at least 30 minutes qualifies as a workout!

8. I will take care of my bones. Women are at risk of osteoporosis and bone loss, especially when they’re not eating properly. Making sure you get enough calcium in your diet is a top priority, and you can improve bone density by doing resistance training as well.

9. I will get a physical. Regular checkups with the doctor help you stay on top of your health; from mammograms to the basic physical, it’s essential to keep track of your health and well-being and minimize problems as they arise.

10. I will eat at least two pieces of fresh fruit/vegetables each day. While health experts recommend at least 3-5 servings each day, you can start with at least two. Getting yourself into the fresh food habit can take time, so don’t feel like you have to jump into extra servings right away. Just transition yourself into eating more whole foods, and you’ll naturally want to eat them more often!

It’s a New Year, so celebrate the new you! Just pick a few of these get-healthy resolutions and look forward to your fit and happy self in 2008.

Article Written By: Sabah Karimi; Sabah writes on health, lifestyle, and fashion for DivaVillage. She’s committing to her health with a balanced diet, regular exercise, and replacing chocolate with fresh fruit whenever possible.